Definition

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a disorder that affects behavior. It can cause hyperactive, impulsive behavior, and/or make it difficult to pay attention. These behavioral problems continue over a long period of time. ADHD can affect people of all ages. Though ADHD is present throughout the lifetime, it may not be diagnosed until adulthood.

There are 3 types of ADHD:

Inattentive (classic "ADD")

Hyperactive-impulsive

Combined inattentive and hyperactive—the most common type

Causes

The cause of ADHD is unknown. It most likely is caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain. The change may happen while the brain is developing. Genes and environmental factors may both play a role.

Parenting styles may influence the symptoms of ADHD but do not cause it.

Symptoms

These symptoms are common in all children at some point in childhood. Children with ADHD have symptoms that are more severe and occur more often. These children also often have difficulty in school and connecting with their family and peers.

ADHD can in adults can cause problems with relationships, job performance, and job retention. Symptoms can vary according to the type of ADHD:

Diagnosis

There is no standard test to diagnose ADHD. It is done by a trained health professional who observes the patient and collects information from the patient, family, caregivers, and teachers.

During diagnosis, the following information may be gathered:

Behavior and symptoms of ADHD in different settings—home, recreation/sports, and school

Age at which symptoms started

How much the behavior affects the child's ability to function

Treatment

The goal is to improve the child's ability to grow, learn, and develop relationships. Doctors should work together with parents and school staff. Together, they can set realistic goals and keep an eye on the child's response. Proper treatment can prevent problems later in life.

Treatments include:

Sleep

Children who do not sleep enough may suffer from worse behavioral problems. A key part of treatment is to ensure that children with ADHD get plenty of sleep.

Medication

Medications can help control behavior and increase attention span. They are generally the first line of treatment for children aged 6 years and older, and adolescents. For preschool children who do not respond to behavior therapy, medications may be added to their treatment plan. Stimulants are the most common choice for ADHD. They increase activity in parts of the brain that appear to be less active in children with ADHD. Some of these medications have an increased risk of heart or psychiatric problems. The medical team will work to find medication with the most benefit and least risk for each child.

Behavior Therapy

Children who take medication and go to therapy do better than those who just use medication. Young children may respond to therapy alone. Therapy sessions focus on practicing social and problem-solving skills. Counselors will also teach parents and teachers techniques that may help help. This could involve changes in the classroom, as well as in parenting style. For example, an inflated cushion on a child's seat at school may help their attention span.

ADHD coaching can also be helpful. These coaches work with individuals to help them organize and create strategies for efficiency and success.

Neurofeedback is a treatment that has shown some promise but is still being studied. This treatment shows brain wave patterns with images on a screen. It gives people a visual cue when their attention starts to wander. Over several sessions, people can retrain their brain to use the good brain patterns and avoid patterns that result in inattention.

Prevention

There are no current guidelines to prevent ADHD because the cause is unknown.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.